Swine flu cases fall again

The GP consultation rate per 100,000 of the population for northern England has fallen to 11 from 17 two weeks ago.

The same rate for England as a whole is down to 11.8 from 16.5.

The number of assessments by the National Pandemic Flu Service for the North West was 1,118 — down from 1,194 two weeks ago.

In-patient activity has also fallen with 27 in-patients with flu-like symptoms — down from 41, nine are classed as critical (up one from eight) and 16 have underlying health conditions, down from 22.

The majority of sufferers have described mild to moderate cold or flu-like symptoms.

Some complained of the sudden onset of fever, cough or shortness of breath. Other symptoms can include headache, sore throat, tiredness, aching muscles, chills, sneezing, runny nose or a loss of appetite.

Anyone who thinks they may have the virus can contact the National Pandemic Flu Service on 0800 1 513 513 for general information.

Alternatively, log on to the website at www. direct.gov.uk/pandemicflu or call 0800 1 513 100 for treatment advice.